Raiders Release Cornerback David Amerson

Jon Gruden’s first roster move as head coach is releasing cornerback David Amerson, who started for the Raiders before a foot injury sidelined him for the season’s final nine games, Matt Schneidman of Bayareanewsgroup reports.

The move was first reported by ESPN’s Field Yates and later confirmed by the team.

Had Amerson still been on the 53-man roster this Wednesday, his $5.5 million base salary for 2018 would’ve become guaranteed. Before his injury, Amerson’s play was shoddy at best, contributing to Oakland’s all-around struggles in the secondary. Perhaps the most symbolic play of his 2017 season was allowing a 52-yard touchdown to Washington wide receiver Josh Doctson in Week 3. Amerson severely mistimed his jump and served as a stepping stool to Doctson’s highlight-reel grab.

Amerson also sustained a concussion and shoulder injury early in the season, so the Raiders never saw him healthy for an extended period of time.